When the summer heat’s cranked up, I’m always looking for something bold, fresh, and light—and these Mango Habanero Chicken Lettuce Wraps are exactly that.
Sweet ripe mango meets fiery habanero in a sticky glaze, draped over juicy grilled chicken and tucked into crisp butter lettuce cups.
Finished with a cooling avocado crema, these wraps are full of tropical flavor, spice, and creamy goodness in every bite.
Each bite is a delicious balance of sweet and spicy, making these wraps a must-try for any flavor enthusiast.
The addition of creamy avocado and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt brings a soothing contrast to the spicy chicken, while the fresh, crisp butter lettuce leaves serve as the perfect vessel for all this deliciousness.
Topped with chopped cilantro, these wraps are not just a meal, they’re a refreshing culinary experience that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Here’s Why You’ll Love My Mango Habanero Chicken Lettuce Wraps
This recipe balances bold heat with juicy sweetness and refreshing crunch. The spicy mango-habanero glaze clings to grilled chicken, while the avocado crema mellows out the fire with smooth, citrusy richness.
Everything’s nestled in crisp lettuce for a satisfying bite without the heaviness—perfect for summer nights, picnics, or low-carb meals.
A Colorful Culinary Delight
The vibrant appearance of Spicy Mango Habanero Chicken Lettuce Wraps invites anyone to take a bite.
With tender, marinated boneless, skinless chicken breasts glistening in olive oil, these wraps are not just a meal; they are a feast for the eyes.
The zesty combination of honey, lime juice, and soy sauce enhances the chicken, while the sweetness of diced ripe mango and the heat from the finely chopped habanero pepper create a perfect balance of flavors.
Refreshing Ingredients
Each component plays a vital role in the overall experience of these wraps.
The creamy avocado slices add a smooth texture, complementing the spicy chicken and crisp lettuce.
Butter lettuce leaves serve as the ideal vessel, offering a satisfying crunch while holding everything together.
A Burst of Flavor
Marinating the chicken in the flavorful mixture allows the spices to permeate each bite.
The honey lends sweetness, while the lime juice contributes a refreshing zing.
When grilled, the chicken becomes golden brown, with a savory exterior that tempts the taste buds.
Assembly of Wraps
Creating the wraps is a straightforward process that brings all the vibrant ingredients together.
Start with a butter lettuce leaf, then layer it with a spoonful of the cooked chicken, fresh diced mango, and slices of avocado.
Top it off with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a fresh finish.
Serving Suggestions
These wraps make for a delightful main dish, perfect for gatherings or a healthy weeknight dinner.
Pair these wraps with grilled pineapple, coconut rice, or cucumber salad for a full tropical-inspired plate.
Chips and guac or mango salsa also make great sides.
For drinks, serve with mojitos, watermelon agua fresca, or a crisp, cold beer.
Arrange them on a rustic wooden table to enhance the inviting atmosphere.
The visual appeal, combined with the tantalizing flavors, makes these spicy mango habanero chicken lettuce wraps a standout choice for any occasion.
Nutritional Benefits
Not only are these wraps a visual treat, but they are also packed with nutrition.
With each serving providing a balance of protein, healthy fats, and vibrant fruits, it’s a wholesome option for those seeking a healthy meal.
Enjoying these wraps means indulging in flavors while caring for your body at the same time.
Tips for the Best Mango Habanero Chicken Lettuce Wraps
- Always wear gloves when handling habaneros—trust me.
. - Use ripe mangoes for the sweetest, most flavorful glaze.
. - Chill the avocado crema to help mellow the spice and keep everything cool.
. - If you’re spice-sensitive, reduce the habanero or add extra lime juice to tone it down.
Spicy Mango Habanero Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Course: Main / AppetizerCuisine: Tropical FusionDifficulty: Easy to Moderate4
servings20
minutes15
minutes350
kcal
These chicken lettuce wraps are a delightful combination of sweet and spicy, with a satisfying crunch from the fresh butter lettuce. The marinade made with honey, lime juice, and soy sauce infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, while the diced ripe mango and habanero pepper add a unique twist.
Ingredients
- For the Mango Habanero Glaze
One-half cup diced ripe mango
One small habanero pepper, finely minced (seeds removed)
Two tablespoons of honey
One tablespoon lime juice
One tablespoon soy sauce
- For the Avocado Crema
One ripe avocado
One-fourth cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
Two tablespoons chopped cilantro
Juice of one lime
Salt to taste
- For Assembly
Two boneless, skinless chicken breasts
One tablespoon of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
8 large butter lettuce leaves (or romaine hearts)
Directions
- Make the Mango Habanero Glaze
- In a blender or food processor, combine mango, habanero, honey, lime juice, and soy sauce. Blend until smooth. Set aside.
- Grill the Chicken
- Brush chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat for 5–6 minutes per side or until cooked through. Let rest, then slice thinly. Toss in the mango habanero glaze.
- Make the Avocado Crema
- In a small blender or bowl, mash avocado with sour cream, lime juice, cilantro, and salt. Blend or whisk until creamy and smooth.
- Assemble the Wraps
- Lay out lettuce cups. Add glazed chicken, a drizzle of avocado crema, and optional toppings like extra mango, chopped red bell pepper, or more cilantro.
- Serve Immediately
- Enjoy while the lettuce is crisp and the chicken is still warm!
Notes
- Want to make it a full meal? Serve the wraps over coconut rice instead of lettuce.
- This glaze also works great on grilled shrimp or tofu.
- To reduce heat without losing flavor, use half a habanero or swap for a milder chili like Fresno or jalapeño.
Storage & Warming
- Store chicken and avocado crema separately in airtight containers.
. - Refrigerate up to 3 days.
. - Reheat chicken gently in a skillet or microwave.
. - Assemble wraps fresh each time for the best texture.
